Philippine-trained teachers hold seminar on profession

Philippine-trained teachers hold seminar on profession

By Jennifer S. MacLean

TORONTO–With York Catholic district school board’s Markham Trustee and noted community advocate, Mrs. Marlene Mogado keynoting the opening session of the “Second Annual Teachers Seminar”, the Philippine Teachers Association and its major partner, the Kababayan Community Centre jointly conducted the significant community event with meaningful success. The 2- day free professional development activity was held at the the Toronto Public Library Auditorium, Parkdale Branch, Toronto on October 25 and November 1, 2008.

Attended by more than 85 Philippine educated former teachers from the home country and current FilCan teachers in Ontario as well, this year’s theme was : “Becoming a Teacher: Certification, Expectations, and Transition.” Specifically, with funding support from the City of Toronto, the event was aimed at providing information and strategies relating to Ontario teacher certification system and the professional requirements and procedures. Other important education-relevant topics covered were: 1) the Ontario school system, 2) bridging programs and alternative careers, 3) professional resume & cover- letter writing, 4) interview preparation & techniques and 5) teaching practices in Ontario elementary & secondary schools, including special programs.

The Seminar was organized by Tony A.San Juan, a teacher at the Toronto District School Board and Vice President for policy & programs of the PTA, in consultation with the executive directorates of Kababayan Community Centre headed by its executive director, Flor Dandal and Board chair Jelbert Real, and the Philippine Teachers Association led by Leonie Manzanares and Rose Cruz, president and vice president, respectively. Other PTA officers are : Noemi Andaya, Boni & Mila Curutan, Pet Collantes, Marissa Miana, Sonia Pascual, Sam Posadas, Mae Sajorne, Rosette Santiago, Mercy Santos,and Eiline Delena & Grace Avila. The KCC staff counsellors include : Frances Caberoy, Melanie Canlas, Loida Gatchalian, and Aurora Rodulfa.

Purposefully targeted were the seminar participants who are intending to undertake professional teacher licensing in Ontario as well as those seeking education sector- specific employment in the province.

The successful attendees were awarded “Certificates of Achievement “. Among the resource persons were an external relations officer from the Ontario College of Teachers , a university professor, school principals & administrators, registered teachers and professional educators from the GTA school boards. The various presenters include : Mr. Jeremiah Arroz, Mrs.Lolita Bruneau, Ms.Cathy Lofgreen, Prof. D’ Arcy Magee, Mrs.Virginia Parucha, Mr.Tony San Juan, Ms.Fermer Santos, and Mr.Herman Viloria.

Interviewed at the conclusion of the event, the project organizer, Tony San Juan revealed that an intensive follow-through workshop is being planned and will be offered to eligible participants . San Juan said it will involve “definitive job search strategies and interactive mentoring” for certified teachers and certifiable teacher-candidates who “need help getting their foot in the door” within the highly competitive Ontario education environment.

(PRESS RELEASE)